Regarding "Nazi theme draws leave," April 13, it is obvious the teacher was trying to teach the skills of persuasive writing, while at the same time shoring up history lessons, by having students write something they don't actually believe.
As a writing teacher for more than a decade, I understand that if students can write persuasively in favor of something they abhor, then they have really learned something about how persuasion is carried out and how propaganda works.
In this case, it would also help students understand how the Nazis grew in power — a valuable lesson. It may have been shortsighted, but I don't think the teacher should be vilified; obviously, he or she was not intending to promote anti-Semitism, but to teach kids about propaganda and power. Odd, how those who disdain bigotry can be so intolerant and judgmental themselves. Let the teacher back to work, with a less controversial persuasive writing assignment.
Betty Buehler Las Vegas